The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON) has disclosed that it handled 7,140 cases in 2024, surpassing the 6,709 cases recorded in 2023.
According to LACON’s 2023 annual statutory report, 4,120 cases were concluded in 2023, marking a milestone in its 48-year history of providing free legal services to indigent Nigerians. The report detailed that 4,123 criminal cases were granted in 2023, with 2,915 completed, while 2,486 civil cases were recorded, with 1,205 concluded.
The council also highlighted the success of alternative dispute resolution, with 485 cases resolved through mediation, which it described as effective in fostering social harmony.
Significant strides were made in defending terrorism suspects, as LACON lawyers represented 350 defendants in cases across Kainji, Abuja, and Maiduguri. In July 2024, approximately 150 defendants facing terrorism charges were defended at the Federal High Court in Kainji, Niger State. Additionally, between March and May 2024, over 150 alleged terrorists were represented at JIC/Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri.
LACON’s Director-General, Aliyu Abubakar, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to criminal defence, legal aid, and access to justice for indigent persons. He noted that legal officers handled cases from walk-in clients, referrals from courts, and collaborations with the National Human Rights Commission and the Nigerian Correctional Service.
As part of its One Stop Shop for Victims of Motor Accidents, LACON secured over ₦9.7 million in third-party insurance claims for accident victims. The council also expanded its pro bono services, with 251 lawyers volunteering in 2024.
In its child justice initiatives, LACON, in partnership with UNICEF, resolved cases involving 44 children and young adults in custodial centres. The council also intensified grassroots sensitisation to raise awareness about its free legal services.
However, the report pointed out inadequate funding as a major challenge affecting operations and staff welfare. LACON remains hopeful following assurances from the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), of increased budgetary allocations in 2025.
